How to Install a Head Gasket

The head gasket is found between the engine block and the cylinder head or heads in a V-type engine. The gasket functions as a seal that prevents the combustion process from leaking into the coolant passages that surround each cylinder. In many cases, it seals oil passages from coolant passages so the fluids do not mix.^{[1]XResearch source}

The price for an independent mechanic to replace a head gasket can be high due to the time-consuming labor involved, so, it is essential to know why you need to replace the head gasket. Have a professional ASE certified Master Auto Technician inspect your vehicle to conclusively determine whether or not your car needs to have the head gasket replaced. The purpose of this article is to help you learn how to install a head gasket to save money, but this should only be attempted by someone with a great deal of experience.

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It will include step by step procedures with images that explain how to replace your head gasket(s). It will also list any special tools that you may need.
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Drain all of the oil and coolant from your engine.^{[2]XResearch source} Remove the parts that are connected to the cylinder head. Refer to your car's service manual for specifics, but in most cases this involves removing the exhaust manifold, the intake manifold, valve cover and drive belts. On many engines, you will need to remove the timing belt or timing chain. Be sure to study the timing belt/chain alignment procedures and be sure you clearly see the alignment marks before you disassemble the timing components.
- Catalog each part as it is removed. Either take pictures or write down each part to help you remember where everything goes once you're done.
- The cylinder head is held on by several bolts and some engines have a sequence for the bolts' removal. Some head bolts cannot be reused and must be replaced. Follow the manual and manufacture requirements.
- Once all head bolts are out then lift the cylinder head off of the engine block. Look at the head surface and the block along with the gasket for the failure areas.
- The gasket will be a thin piece of sealing material that can be seen once you remove the head. The gasket can be made out of metal, deformable material, or a combination of both. The failure can be a break in the gasket.
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Check the block to be sure no warping has occurred and send the head or heads to an automotive machine shop to be pressure tested. If the pressure test reveals no cracks, have the machine shop resurface the head(s). Don't ever re-install a cylinder head that has not been professionally re-surfaced and examined for cracks.
- Check the service manual for the head bolt specifications to see if the bolts need to be replaced whenever the head gasket is replaced. Some bolts are what is called torque to yield type and would need to be replaced
- The cams on overhead cam motors will need the cams removed to service the cylinder heads. Talk to the machine shop that is working on your heads about what needs to be removed before having them work on them.
Do not scratch or remove any metal from either, as this may prevent the head gasket from sealing. Prevent any dirt or debris from getting into the cylinders or on pistons during the cleaning process. Inspect the piston tops and cylinder walls for any damage from the overheating or the head gasket problem. Make sure all surfaces are clean and dry.
Use gasket sealant when specified by the manufacturer, and only use the directed amount in the particular places. Deviating from the manufacturer's recommendations can cause damage to the internal parts of the engine. Most head gaskets will be marked "top" and "up" for proper installation.
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Use a torque wrench to tighten the head onto the block. Check the service manual for the head bolt torque sequence and the amount of torque that needs to be applied for each step. Some head bolts require 3 steps plus specified degree rotation as the final step.^{[3]XResearch source}
- Overhead cam heads may need the cams to be in a set position before the head is installed, or installed after the head is installed to keep the valves from contacting the pistons and bending them.
Check to see if the engine is an interference type of engine. If so, there is a very specific method to rotate and set up the camshaft to crankshaft timing so you don't damage or bend the valves! If equipped, install the distributor so it is properly timed with the number one cylinder. If applicable, adjust the valve clearance to proper specification.
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Fill the engine with new oil, replace the oil filter and fill the cooling system with new factory specified coolant. When you start the engine, be sure to let the engine idle with the heater on full blast. This is so the cooling system has a chance to bleed out any air bubbles. Some engines require a specific cooling system bleeding procedure, be sure to check for that.
- Make sure the engine does not overheat during the purging process, or head gasket or head damage could occur again. Once all air is out of the cooling system and engine temperature is stable and in the normal range, check for any leaking oil or coolant.

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Head gasket failure is often caused by an engine overheating. Keep an eye out for signs you may need a replacement of a head gasket, which can include loss of engine compression, mixing of oil and coolant, loss of coolant, and loss of oil. The two last causes can be very devastating to an engine if allowed to go on and may cause complete engine failure. Loss of coolant will cause the engine to overheat even more and potentially warp the head and other castings. Low oil can mean loss of the lubrication for the engine's internal mechanical components, which will increase friction increase wear on the engine parts. If coolant got into the oil then this could have caused bearing failures on the crankshaft and pistons.
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